The Canadian Carwash Association Celebrates a Milestone Anniversary
The Canadian Carwash Association (CCA) has played a vital role in advancing the carwash industry since its establishment in 1959. Originally founded as the Automatic Car Wash Association of Ontario, the organization has evolved into a national association providing members with valuable resources, industry insights, and networking opportunities. Its origins are credited to Ted Snyders, who drafted the constitution, rallied operators, and became the Charter President. The Association was incorporated in 1960, and Snyders’ legacy continued as he served as Executive Secretary for 32 years, dedicating his life to the industry.
The CCA’s history is marked by significant milestones. The first Canadian Automatic Car Wash Trade Seminar in 1963 set the stage for professional development and networking. In 1975, reflecting its national reach, the organization was renamed the Canadian Carwash Association with the motto “Clean Across Canada.” During the 1980s, the Association expanded its services, hosting its first trade fair in 1980 and establishing the prestigious Ted Snyders Achievement Award in 1981 to honor long-serving volunteers.
The 1990s saw further growth, including a partnership with Erb and Erb to develop an insurance program tailored to carwash operators. In 1997, the Association began endorsing Octane magazine and the CARWACS trade show, enhancing industry visibility. By the 2000s, CCA launched innovative initiatives, such as Wash Volume Reports in collaboration with Kent Group Ltd., providing members with exclusive market data. In 2011, the Association partnered with Leger Marketing to assess Canadians’ awareness of environmental impacts, leading to tools like the Getting Started Toolkit for operators in 2012.
Regional engagement also shaped CCA’s legacy. In 2001, the Western Canadian Chapter was established following the Octane Trade Show in Calgary, where a need for local representation became evident. Led by Nancy Schmautz and supported by industry volunteers, the chapter focused on advocacy, education, and community-building. It tackled regional issues, such as water usage regulations and zoning requirements, engaging with municipalities from Calgary to Vancouver to mitigate operational challenges.
The Western Chapter also fostered industry connections through events like the Car Wash Bus Tour, showcasing innovative facilities, and forums on maintenance and marketing. A notable highlight was a door seminar in Calgary, where competing companies collaborated for the first time, exemplifying the chapter’s unifying impact. Informal gatherings, like a barbecue turned garage party for industry experts in 2002, further cemented relationships among leaders.
By 2008, the Western Chapter reintegrated with the CCA’s head office, leaving a legacy of increased membership, advocacy successes, and professional development in Western Canada. Throughout its 65-year history, the CCA has consistently adapted to industry needs, offering programs, partnerships, and events that empower carwash operators nationwide.
As the CCA celebrates its 65th anniversary in 2025, it honors the dedication of its members, volunteers, and leaders who have built an enduring foundation for the industry. From pioneering trade seminars in the 1960s to regional chapters and modern market research, the CCA remains a cornerstone for carwash professionals committed to growth, innovation, and collaboration.
Check out our CCA Past Presidents and CCA History.
We have gone into our archives and put together the following slide shows (click on the links to view):
CCA Annual Golf Tournament: 2006 - 2011
CCA Annual Golf Tournament: 2012 - 2019
Image above: Courtesy of the Toronto Star Archives, photographer John Mahler